Photokeratitis is when your eyes get sunburned. This happens when your eyes are exposed to UV rays from the sun or from an artificial source like tanning beds. Snow blindness is another type of photokeratitis that happens when UV light is reflected off ice and snow. Symptoms of photokeratitis can include pain, redness, tearing, and sensitivity to light. Photokeratits usually goes away on its own in a few days. While your eye heals, you should avoid wearing contact lenses and rubbing your eyes. To help ease the pain, you can use artificial tears, pain relievers, eye lubricating ointments or a cold washcloth.
To prevent photokeratitis, wear eye protection like sunglasses or snow goggles that block UV radiation.
If you have any questions about your eyes or your vision, speak with your ophthalmologist. He or she is committed to protecting your sight.
